You are here

Patient Rights and Responsibilities

The University of Ottawa Heart Institute believes that each person is a unique individual whose nature is physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual and social. Each person is entitled to dignity and respect, regardless of circumstances or condition. According to our philosophy:

I have the right to:

Receive courteous, competent and timely care;

Receive complete and current information regarding all aspects of my care in a manner I understand;

Participate with the healthcare team in developing a treatment or care plan that addresses my needs;

Obtain a second opinion;

Expect that the information gathered concerning my care will be treated in a confidential manner (for more information, please refer to our Privacy Policy);

If I wish, designate a person to represent or support me in making decisions about my treatment or care;

Be made aware of the names and functions of all members of my healthcare team;

Be informed of the hospital policies that apply to me;

Express my concerns and receive a timely response;

Refuse treatments, except in circumstances stipulated by law (for example, for certain communicable diseases) and be informed of any possible medical consequences of such refusal;

Be acknowledged in the language of my choice (English or French); the hospital will provide, if possible, the services of an interpreter to ensure communication with members of the healthcare team is possible.